Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s job will be on the line when Manchester City visit Old Trafford on Saturday. Liverpool’s five goal thrashing two weeks ago is still fresh on the memories of those who witnessed live. Hence, United supporters will feel happier at the end of the day, even if their team manage to gain just a point from the game. This article details the predicted lineups for Manchester United vs Manchester City.
Manchester United
Formation :- 3-4-1-2
Goalkeeper – David de Gea
David de Gea has been in terrific form in front of the goal, despite United’s shambolic defending. United will need him to be in top form if they are to stop City’s diverse array of forwards from scoring.
Defenders – Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Eric Bailly, Harry Maguire, Victor Lindelof, Luke Shaw
Wan-Bissaka has struggled to adjust to his new wing-back role in a five-man defense system. There were several communication lapses between hi and Bailly against Atalanta. But due to injuries, Ole has no other option but to field Wan-Bissaka in the right wing-back position. Lindelof, Maguire and Bailly are likely to be the three central defenders. Luke Shaw will start in a more advanced role on the left.
Midfielders – Fred, Scott McTominay, Bruno Fernandes
Donny Van de Beek had a nice outing against Atalanta but so far Ole has not preferred him to start. Hence, the two holding midfielders for Manchester United vs Manchester City will be Fred and McTominay. Fred sat out the game against Atalanta and hence will be eager to prove a point.
McTominay looks like a shadow of his own self this season but in the past he has produced some sparkling performances against Manchester City. Bruno Fernandes will play as a number 10 or as a central attacking midfielder for Manchester United vs Manchester City . His vision and creativity will be integral to United’s chances of breaking down a stubborn City defense.
Forwards – Edinson Cavani, Cristiano Ronaldo
Ronaldo and Cavani have a combined age of over 70 and their peak years are in the past. Yet both of them can still be lethal in front of the goal, as evident against Spurs.
Manchester City
Formation :- 4-3-3
Goalkeeper – Ederson
Ederson has conceded just six goals in the Premier League so far. His acrobatic saves and accurate passing skills are an added bonus for an already formidable unit.
Defenders – Kyle Walker, Ruben Dias, John Stones, Joao Cancelo
Walker has evolved as a defender and is currently one of the best right-backs in the world. With Laporte serving a suspension, Stones is set to replace him. He will be partnered by the ever-reliable Ruben Dias. Joao Cancelo is a dream to watch on his day, and he will be playing as a left-back.
Midfielders – Kevin de Bruyne, Rodri, Bernardo Silva
Rodri has kept developing ever since he joined from Atlético and is now firmly Guardiola’s first-choice defensive midfielder. He will be accompanied by two outstanding playmakers, Bernardo Silva and Kevin de Bruyne. Silva has been one of City’s best players so far, and he will be licking his lips after watching United’s defensive struggles versus Atalanta.
Forwards – Riyad Mahrez, Phil Foden, Jack Grealish
Foden’s versatility is amazing for a 21-year-old as he has played a wide variety of roles in his career. But his best performances have come as a false nine, and he is expected to retain the role against United. Grealish and Mahrez will play as wingers looking to exploit the spaces created by Foden’s movement.
